New water filtration technology removes nearly all particles greater than 10 nm

A new water filtration technology has been developed by researchers at the University of Texas.

Photo courtesy of UT News

It uses a unique film composed of tiny fibres called nano-cellulose, intricately woven together into a gel-like substance. This gel serves as an incredibly efficient filter for water, capable of trapping various contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, and pollutants.

The workings of the filtration technique

Firstly, contaminated water is introduced into the filtration system, often via a syringe or similar method. As the water flows through the gel, the nanocellulose fibers within the film work to capture and retain the harmful substances present in the water.

Once the water has passed through the gel, it emerges on the other side thoroughly purified and safe for consumption. This process ensures that all the impurities are effectively removed, leaving behind clean, drinkable water.

Maintenance of the filtration system involves periodic replacement or regeneration of the gel to uphold its filtering efficiency over time.

Hydrogel Filtration: A Game-Changer in Clean Water Access

This breakthrough in water filtration technology holds significant promise, particularly in addressing water scarcity issues and expanding access to clean drinking water for communities worldwide. Its simplicity and effectiveness mark a notable advancement in the quest for sustainable solutions to global water challenges.It collects particles and passes clean water through.It uses a syringe to suck water from a dangerous water source. It then injects the liquid through the hydrogel. Hydrogel collects impurities while letting clean water flow through. It uses syringes of up to 1.5 litres, which satisfy 40% of the daily clean drinking water of one person.

Experts from the University of Texas also tested the technology with different water sources. Specifically, they tested it with microplastics, tiny pieces of plastic from industrial waste. DeBrief also says the hydrogel can be reused 30 times before being replaced and is 100 percent biodegradable. In contrast, similar cleaning methods pale in comparison. They rely on paper filters and microporous membranes that can capture only 40–80% of particles larger than 10 nanometers. Consequently, this would allow significant amounts of smaller pollutants to remain in the water. Researchers want to expand the capacity of the filtration system to provide drinking water to more people around the world.

“Our system, with its high efficiency in removing various types of particles, presents an appealing yet feasible solution to enhance the availability of fresh water,” remarks research professor Guihua Yu. Reflecting on the global scenario, Chuxin Lei, the study’s lead, notes, “It’s evident that a significant portion of the world’s population lacks access to clean drinking water, even in regions with ample fresh water sources.”

Lei emphasizes the urgent necessity for straightforward, readily available, and efficient materials and equipment to treat water contaminated with particles. “Such solutions are crucial in ensuring people worldwide have access to clean water,” Lei concludes.

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